WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) — Wilkes-Barre officials say new funding will help address long-standing infrastructure problems on Horton Street, which has been plagued by sinkholes and drainage issues.
Mayor George Brown and State Representative Eddie Day Pashinski announced the city has received $150,000 to support a larger project aimed at repairing aging stormwater and sewer systems beneath the roadway.
The improvements come after a series of problems in 2025, when two sinkholes opened along Horton Street. One was linked to a water main issue, while another was caused by a collapse in the sanitary sewer system. The road was shut down for several months as crews worked to stabilize the area and complete emergency repairs.
During that work, crews discovered more extensive damage underground. A large stormwater culvert—more than 700 feet long and over a century old—was found to be deteriorating, with sections of its structure missing or failing.
City officials say the planned fix involves reinforcing the culvert with an interior lining, a method designed to strengthen the structure without needing a full replacement. The goal is to prevent future sinkholes, reduce the risk of flooding, and avoid repeated emergency repairs.
The total cost of the Horton Street project is estimated at more than $1.6 million. The newly announced funding will help cover engineering, construction, and related expenses.
Officials say addressing the issue is a top priority, given the repeated disruptions and safety concerns tied to the failing infrastructure.